As government restrictions around COVID-19 tighten, and more and more people decide to social distance, the effects are being felt by the hospitality industry and local businesses. New government restrictions have required venues to ensure at least four square metres of space for each patron.

It is so important to be prioritising hygiene and social distancing during these uncertain times. It is also important that we do everything we can to support local businesses and the hospitality industry. We’ve put together a little guide on how you can support your local businesses whilst minimising the spread of COVID-19.

If you’re going to go out, practice radical hygiene

If you do decide to leave the house, it is your responsibility and civic duty to implement hygiene practices. Make sure you’re washing your hands correctly. This should be such a simple, inherent thing but I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve witnessed people slosh their hands under a tap for like three seconds and call that satisfactory sanitation. Here is a guide on how to make sure your mittens are squeaky clean.

Many venues are adapting to the climate by implementing intense hygiene practices. The Potts Point Hotel have increased regular use of disinfectant wipes to sterilise EFTPOS, POS and other commonly used items. Hand sanitisers will also be available at the bar. If you’re feeling unsure about the cleanliness of a seating area, we recommend you ask a staff member to give it a wipe down with disinfectant — it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Also for the love of god please do not go outside if you are in any way, shape or form unwell.
Takeaway is your best friend

Honestly, it’s probably for the best you stick to social distancing guidelines. Staying indoors is brilliant anyway. You can control everything. You’ll never be unwittingly subjected to listening to Toploader’s ‘Dancing In The Moonlight’.

Many restaurants, cafes and pubs recognise how crucial social distancing is during these times, so to cater to all your isolation needs, they’ve made their menu’s takeaway friendly. Perhaps when ordering food you could take a moment to consider the businesses that are going to be affected the most intensely during this time. Every man and his dog is gonna be delivering Maccas to their door, so maybe your tiny contribution can be ordering pub grub to go instead.

Buy restaurant merchandise

There is no such thing as too many tote bags. Also instead of splashing out on chat Peter Alexander pyjamas, why not fall asleep every evening wrapped in the warm embrace of a t-shirt emblazoned with the logo of your favourite local taphouse?

Love Food & Drink?

Get the latest Food & Drink news, features, updates and giveaways straight to your inbox Learn more

Leave a positive review

Literally what else are you doing with your time in self-isolation? You are too old to be a successful Tik Tok teen. Take a moment to reflect on every red hot establishment you’ve visited and write a positive review. It’s a nice trinket of solidarity towards our hospitality heroes.

Buy a gift voucher

This is an excellent way to support your local. It’s also a nice little thing to look forward to. Heaps of restaurants and venues offer gift vouchers to purchase, so have a little peruse and do what you can.

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine